LETTER: Early childhood educator encourages child safety seat use

Child Passenger Safety Week / National Seat Check Saturday was observed last week The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that “car crashes are the number one killer of children 1 to 12 years old in the United States. The best way to protect them in the car is to put them in the right seat, at the right time, and use it the right way.”

As an early childhood educator in Gaston County, my observation over the past couple of years has been that some parents/caregivers do not take this issue seriously when placing children into motor vehicles. Many times children are not buckled correctly, car seats are not age appropriate, incorrectly positioned or children are put into vehicles without being restrained in a car seat.

“The right car seat or booster fits your child and your car, and is one you will use correctly every time you travel. Not only will your child ride as safely as possible, you will be establishing the foundation for a lifelong habit of seat belt use every time your child travels,” according to Parents Central (The Right Seat) Sept. 17.

Keeping our children safe while traveling should be a top priority. I encourage all parents, caregivers and educators to become more aware of car seat safety. In our area, The Gastonia Fire Department is a child safety seat inspection station. They are located at 260 North Myrtle School Road, Gastonia. Hours: First and third Thursday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. Other times require an appointment. Phone: 704-866-6987 Contact: Jim Landis.

On the internet visit http://www.safercar.gov/parents/GetHelp.htm for more information regarding safe car seats.